GC Arneil

Abstract

Yesterdays' ethics are being rapidly superceded perforce by the advent of powerful, effective and toxic drugs and modern sophisticated technology. The new philosophy is rapidly becoming "the end justifies the means" as opposed to "the first essential of treatment being that it shall do no harm". A number of important aspects are dealt with on suscitation, resuscitation and termination. Attention is then given to the ethical aspects of eugenics and euthenics, relations with industry, the child's right of consent and mutilation. More questions are asked than answers given but throughout the two persons at the sharp end of decisions, the child and the paediatrician are considered in relation to the parents, the clinical background, cost to hospital and parents and common sense. The need for policy decisions to deal with certain acute problems on which an immediate decision must be taken is stressed and the need for a multidisciplinary ethical committee of independent mind. The rights of children are considered to be ethical decisions by adults.